The Powwow Guy

I've decided to edit and repost this since I believe it's a really important post. Talisman-making utilizing metals can be extremely difficult and expensive, and so therefore I am really pleased with how well my paper talismans method has been received.

Another custom then in vogue among the Germans in Pennsylvania was the wearing of an "anhangsel," a kind of astrological amulet or talisman . . . In rare cases a thin stone or sheet of metal was used in place of parchment. These "anhangsel," or "zauber-zettel" as they were called, were prepared by the Mystics of the Community with certain occult ceremonies at such times as the culmination of a particular star or the conjunction of certain planets . . . (and) supposed to exercise an extraordinary influence over the destiny of the bearer, particularly in averting disease, checking the power of evil spirits, and defending the wearer from malice and all harm . . . hardly an adult or child was to be found without one . . .

--The Realness of Witchcraft in America, A. Monroe Aurand, Jr. 1942

The crafting of planetary talismans is an art and science all it's own.  Traditionally, planetary talismans are crafted using various metals known to resonate with specific planetary energies and the images are etched into the metal using diamond-tipped implements.  These talismans are crafted under very specific astrological conditions during certain planetary hours and so forth.  In short, the making of a planetary talisman is very exact and not for those who are looking for a quick magical project to do.

I have taken the traditional methods and altered them to be a little more user-friendly for those of us who do not have access to various metals and engraving tools or for those who simply want to work with paper.  Paper planetary talismans can still serve the same purpose as their metal counterparts and also be a little easier to create.  The astrological conditions for creating these talismans is exactly the same as the traditional methods but the materials are much more readily available.

Before we begin, check out THIS LINK for an explanation of calculating planetary hours.  It is important to your work that you have at least a rudimentary understanding of astrological energies so you know exactly which type of talisman you are creating and which astro energies to work within.

The planetary talisman I'll demonstrate is a symbol talisman for protection.  (pictured above).

Basic supplies are some heavy duty paper in various colors (if you choose to use colors, which I do because I'm not using metals), scissors, glue, and a good marker.  I prefer the heavy-duty scrapbooking paper because it holds up better with glue than regular printing or construction paper.

Planetary talismans work with three basic shapes; the circle, the five-pointed star, and the six-pointed star. 

Because I've chosen to create a talisman for Protection, I am working on a Saturday in the astrological hour of Saturn.  If the Sun or Moon is in the sign of Capricorn or Aries, so much the better.  For Protection, you can use both waxing or waning moon; both are effective.  Remember that the more fine-tuning you do on timing, the more power there will be in your talisman. 

In the center of the five-pointed star I've drawn the sign of the sickle; which is for cutting away.  This sickle is symbolic of the separation of the wheat from the chaff.  Sickle imagery is used in the Bible to demonstrate Christ as the harvester.  It is perfect as a symbol of Protection from those who would be detrimental to us.  Feel free to put your own symbol of Protection here. 

In the center of the six-pointed star I've chosen symbols for deity.  In this case, the triple crucifix for Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

Now is when you glue the five-pointed star on one side and the six-pointed star on the other side.  Don't get too crazy with the glue or the paper will roll up on itself.  Just a light coating of glue and a little pressure for a few seconds should do it.

Now with your marker you are placing the symbols that call upon divinity to infuse the talisman with holy powers.  These symbols are called the Alphabet of the Magi and, on my talisman, they are the letters for the name of Jesus.  Go to THIS LINK to see this alphabet.

On the side with the six-pointed star I've written out exactly who is protected by this talisman.

Now that the talisman construction is finished, I pray for it's effectiveness then place it where I feel it will be most effective; typically near the main entrance to my home. 

Planetary talismans can be extremely effective if created properly.  Simply throwing one together without consideration for the planetary energies you are working with will basically make it ineffective.  It's crucial that you follow the specifics for creation and be sure to ask for the blessing of God on all that you do.